Abstract: A fall protection apparatus is described which allows for a user to effectuate a controlled descent after a fall has been arrested. The apparatus includes a tether line secured above a protected position of the user and a cinch line which frictionally engages the tether. The cinch line is attached to the user, and when the user falls, the frictional engagement of the cinch line and the tether line increase and arrests the fall. The user then pulls on a slip line attached to the cinch line to descend. Pulling on the slip line decreases the frictional engagement of the cinch line and the tether line so the user can control their descent rate based on how hard they pull on the slip line.

Abstract: A safety harness system incorporating suspension relief for use by those engaging in activities at a height above the ground is provided. Such safety harness comprises a plurality of straps, for creating the basic skeletal structure of the harness, a tether, and a suspension relief extension. The safety harness system is constructed so as to allow the user to relieve weight or force on the harness and transfer such weight or force to the tether.